The premium zinnia.
Recommended by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. High yields of long, sturdy stems with 4-6", fully double, dahlia-like blooms. Excellent vase life. Vigorous plants hold up well in summer heat and rain. Low susceptibility to powdery mildew. Ht. 40–50". Avg. 3,300 seeds/oz. Packet: 50 seeds.
DAYS TO GERMINATION: 3-5 days at 80-85°F (27-29°C). A heat mat can help maintain an accurate temperature. Lower temperatures will result in slower germination.
SOWING: Transplant: Sow 4 weeks before last frost. Cover seed and keep soil surface moist until emergence. When seedlings have true leaves, transplant into cell packs. Do not allow plants to become root bound and do not disturb roots; transplant shock may cause double to revert back to singles. Direct seed: After last frost when the soil is warm, sow thinly, 6 seeds per foot, 1/4" deep. Cover lightly but firmly. Keep surface from drying out until emergence. Thin after the first true leaves appear.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Fertile soil rich in organic matter.
PLANT SPACING: 9-12".
HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.
HARVEST: Fresh: Harvest before flowers are completely open. With the exception of the Profusion varieties, deadheading is necessary to prolong blooming and encourage branching.
USES: Taller varieties make excellent cut flowers. Beds, borders, and mass plantings.
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Zinnia spp.
When everything else has died off my sweet peas and Zinnias are still eye-catchers.
I have so many budding, I could just sit down and cry that a frost will kill these beauties in a few days.
And, I will not gather any of their seeds for next year. They are so beautiful with so many colors
even white, which I have never seen before.